13-Jun-2025 02:00 PM
This year, the Balikatan Exercise marks its 40th anniversary, and it’s more important than ever. Taking place in April 2025, this annual military drill is not just a show of strength—it’s a message of unity and friendship between two long-time allies: the Philippines and the United States.
With tensions rising in the South China Sea, Balikatan 2025 is designed to send a clear signal: both countries are ready to protect their shared interests, uphold international law, and work together to keep the region safe.
“Balikatan” is a Tagalog word that literally means “shoulder to shoulder.” And that perfectly sums up the spirit of this event. It’s about teamwork, trust, and being ready to support each other in times of need—whether in war or disaster.
Every year, soldiers from both nations come together to train, share knowledge, and prepare for everything from natural disasters to full-scale military threats.
Balikatan 2025 is not business as usual. Here’s what’s new and exciting:
This year, over 17,000 troops from both countries are taking part—the most ever!
For the first time, Balikatan will feature a “Full Battle Test.” This means combining real military units on the ground with advanced computer simulations to mimic an actual war scenario. It’s about preparing for real-life situations in real-time.
It’s not just about soldiers on the ground or ships at sea anymore. The 2025 version includes air, land, sea, cyber, and even space operations. Because today’s conflicts are complex and multidimensional.
Balikatan isn’t just about defense. It also includes Humanitarian Civic Assistance—helping communities with medical missions, school repairs, and disaster preparedness. It's about making a difference in people’s lives, not just military training.
Balikatan happens under the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) signed between the U.S. and the Philippines in 1951. It means both countries have each other’s backs if either is attacked. But the exercise goes beyond legal obligations—it’s about trust, commitment, and standing up for each other.
In a world where geopolitical tensions can escalate fast, exercises like Balikatan remind us that peace is something we have to actively work for—and train for.
Balikatan 2025 isn’t just about military drills. It’s a symbol of partnership, resilience, and shared values. It shows that in uncertain times, long-standing friendships and alliances matter more than ever. With both countries literally and figuratively standing shoulder to shoulder, the message is clear: together, we’re stronger.
1. What does the word “Balikatan” mean in Tagalog?
A) Ready for battle
B) Shoulder-to-shoulder
C) Sea patrol
D) Airstrike operation
✅ Answer: B) Shoulder-to-shoulder
2. How many troops are participating in Balikatan 2025?
A) 5,000
B) 10,000
C) 17,000
D) 25,000
✅ Answer: C) 17,000
3. What’s a new feature of Balikatan 2025?
A) Jungle warfare training
B) Full Battle Test with virtual simulations
C) Mountain climbing competition
D) Food supply drills
✅ Answer: B) Full Battle Test with virtual simulations
4. Which treaty forms the foundation of the Balikatan Exercise?
A) NATO Charter
B) Southeast Asia Peace Pact
C) Mutual Defense Treaty
D) ASEAN Cooperation Treaty
✅ Answer: C) Mutual Defense Treaty
5. Which of these is not part of the 2025 exercise components?
A) Cybersecurity training
B) Combined Joint Logistics Over-the-Shore
C) Humanitarian Civic Assistance
D) Nuclear weapons testing
✅ Answer: D) Nuclear weapons testing
